Frequently asked questions about automotive engine valves

There are several valves which play a critical role in the efficient operation of your vehicle. For example, the intake valves allows fuel in the combustion chamber of each cylinder. The exhaust valves allow vapors to escape from the rooms below the combustion process. When forming the problems with the valves, the engine can suffer from performance problems, including the misfire and loss of compression. E 'important to have this type of problems addressed quickly in order to preserve the performance of the engine.

With this in mind, we will respond to most common questions asked of valves of their vehicles. The following should give you a better understanding about why they are important, issues that affect them and the best approach to solving problems.

"What causes the valves to fail?"

As all the components, valves suffer wear for tens of thousands of kilometers. If you drive the car far enough, will eventually be replaced. However, they can not long before they wear due to burning or breaking.

Valves to do their work in the presence of extremely high temperatures. Exhaust valves performed exceptionally hot (up to 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit), because they are exposed to the vapors arising from the combustion process. These high temperatures make them particularly susceptible to fire.

When valves are burning, the metal becomes less robust. It is not uncommon for them to suffer from fatigue, causing pieces to break. When this occurs, a loss of compression is developed.

"What happens during a process of Valve?"

This type of repair work involves the removal of the cylinder head to expose the valves of failure and the guides. The repair shops more detailed completely disassemble the head of the cylinder so that the individual components can be cleaned and checked. If cracks have been identified, the entire head or is repaired or replaced (cracks are serious because they allow you to filter the coolant in the combustion chamber).

Subsequently, the guides are replaced because they are worn beyond the point of efficacy. The valves are adjusted, or if they are still usable, or replaced.

"How much does this cost type of work?"

The repair bill can vary from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Much depends on the type of engine in the vehicle and the type of repairs needed. For example, setting a single valve in a standard 4-cylinder could cost less than $ 400, including labor. On the other hand, replacing more valves, fixing a head crack, and repairs connected on a import can drive the bill upwards.

"What a test Leakdown?"

A test leakdown is used to identify the loss of compression to the combustion chambers of the cylinder contents. It identifies if the cylinders are sealing properly and if not, measures the percentage loss. It is worth noting that all engines suffer from some degree of loss of compression. Even the best engines in losses of up to 10 percent compression. If a leakdown shows a loss of compression of 30 percent or more, have a mechanical check your intake valves and exhaust.

"What other problems can affect valve?"

In addition to burning, breakage, normal wear and suffering, the valves of your engine can become bent. This can occur for several reasons, but it often happens because of a timing belt broken. The tape breaks and sends the piston of the cylinder crashing into the valve. If a significant amount of damage results, the valve must be replaced. If the damage is minor, can be corrected and reinstalled.

Engine valves receive much less attention than they deserve. They fill a role without which the vehicle can not operate efficiently. To seal the combustion chamber, and the opening at the precise moment to allow fuel to enter and exit gas, the intake valves and exhaust perform a critical function. As such, when problems occur, they should be addressed quickly.

Repair of these components can be costly, and becomes more so with the extent of damage (ie cracks, breaks, etc..) However, ignoring the problem will be virtually ensures more expensive to fix the road .......